Over 1000 to attend international women in policing conference

This is a joint media release between the Australian Federal Police, Queensland Police Service and Australasian Council of Women & Policing.

Over one thousand delegates from nearly 60 countries will attend one of the world’s largest international conferences on women in law enforcement, in Cairns, Queensland, from 17-21 September 2017.

The 2017 International Women and Law Enforcement Conference is themed ‘Global Networks: Local Law Enforcement’ to celebrate the cooperation between law enforcement agencies and communities around the globe.

President of the Australasian Council of Women and Policing, AFP Assistant Commissioner Deb Platz, says the conference will focus on the many emerging and complex challenges facing 21st century policing in a volatile world.

“The conference will provide an exciting opportunity for police and law enforcement partners to join our global community with a focus on enhancing and supporting women in law enforcement and other community protection roles.

“Amongst many highlights will be an Australian Police Commissioners’ Panel, involving all the leaders of our state and territory police agencies who will share their insights, including the women who have influenced their lives and careers,” Assistant Commissioner Platz said.

Other key issues to be covered include: Indigenous policing; the changing role of women in law enforcement; managing domestic and family violence; modern day slavery; and police women in peacekeeping.

Some of the success of the conference is no doubt because of the efforts of conference patrons Terri, Bindi and Robert Irwin. Bindi will host a special leadership afternoon for selected Cairns school girls.

AFP Commissioner Andrew Colvin said the development of our children is critical to the future safety of our country.

“I hope some of them will join law enforcement agencies.”

Commissioner Ian Stewart, QPS will get the conference off with a colourful start with an opening Parade of Nations in the heart of Cairns, starting at 8am, Monday 18 September 2017.

Commissioner Stewart said he is excited about showcasing Cairns to the international guests.

“The streets will be a flood of colours as members march behind their nation’s flag. It’s a great opportunity for the community to get to know our officers and those from around the world.”

That evening the delegates will gather for the presentation of the 19th annual Australian Council of Women and Policing Awards Dinner, to celebrate and showcase the achievements of Australian law enforcement leaders to an international audience.